Earlier this week, Donald Trump was elected the next President of the United States. Over the course of his campaign, Trump has threatened to build a wall, close the border to refugees, and deport millions of people. As an organization that dedicates itself to the advocacy of immigrants, IASC is deeply saddened and alarmed by the implications of these proposed policies as they directly relate to the communities that we serve.

We at IASC would like to guarantee our continued support for the communities we have proudly served throughout our short time in the New London area. We would also like to remind everyone of the potential we have as a people to overcome this adversity. This past election was a voter turnout milestone for many of the demographics that make up our community. The Latino vote this year has had a bigger impact in the election than ever before. In addition to this, Muslim communities around the country have mobilized more of their members to have their voices heard. With this progress in mind we at IASC would like to stress that now is the time to continue to stand in solidarity, and to double our efforts.

This past weekend on October 22nd, IASC hosted its second citizenship clinic. Trained lawyers and students from Connecticut College helped clients complete their citizenship documents in a one on one setting. What makes it even better is that they did it for free, with some individuals even qualifying for application waivers. By the end of the clinic volunteers had helped eleven people through their naturalization N-400 applications. Clients came in from an array of countries including the Dominican Republic, Burma, and China. For information on any future clinics, contact IASC.

As a part of its Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, Bennie Dover Middle School in New London invited IASC to illustrate the challenges of the U.S. immigration system and describe the service solutions that IASC is providing the community. Speaking to about forty students, Attorney Michael Doyle described how broken our immigration system has become. “The system is complex, expensive, and for the most part, faceless,” Atty. Doyle said, “and we came to New London to help guide immigrants who could not otherwise afford trustworthy assistance.” Atty. Doyle also highlighted a positive future for the Hispanic community despite present-day lackluster voting rates. “Vote. Everyone needs to vote. You will hold the power in your hands in just a few years. If you vote, then you will have the power to make changes of all kinds.” Kevin Booker, the school’s Parent Educator Coordinator, further emphasized the point, “Do you remember the tragedies of the past? Well, you can make them history forever if you get involved.”

On September 19th, IASC had the opportunity to work with Otis Library in Norwich, CT to organize a ‘Welcoming America’ event. The celebration was meant to bring community members, immigrants and U.S. born residents alike to celebrate the arrival of new Americans and the already diverse community we have come to know. Community members also celebrated the opening of the World Language Center Children’s Department in Otis Library. Attendees had the opportunity to enjoy culturally inspired activities, art, and food.

Two Republican members of Congress from Illinois will resist their party’s platform on immigration Wednesday as they highlight their support for a pathway to citizenship for many of the nation’s 11 million undocumented immigrants. Senator Mark Kirk and Representative Bob Dold will be coming together to discuss how to create a path to citizenship for undocumented workers. Both republicans no longer endorse Donald Trump after Trump made various, illogical decisions and many negative comments on Arizona Republican Sen. John McCain’s record as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.